An Inspired Chat with Kristine Mannino of Metro Detroit

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kristine Mannino. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Kristine, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are intentionally slow before the chaos sets in. I’m usually up early with the dogs, coffee in hand, playing the New York Times games (shoutout to Wordle and Connections) and taking some quiet time for myself before diving into work. I’m a big believer in making the bed and starting the day with a bit of structure – it sets the tone for everything that follows.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Kristine Mannino, owner of Byrdie Bar – a professional and fully insured bartending company for Corporate Events, Weddings, Birthdays, Brand Launches, Festivals, Celebrations, and everything in-between. We have been raising the bar, elevating drink menus, and bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to all celebrations in the Metro-Detroit area and beyond since 2020. We specialize in Signature Craft Cocktails, Unique Bar Rentals (we have 12!), and are committed to providing you and your guests an amazing beverage experience.

I also most recently launched our newest brand STiCK – Metro Detroit’s first custom sticker vending machine and custom stickers. With STiCK, party favors just got a major glow up! Our vending machine adds a fun, personal touch to your event with some nostalgic 90s sticker vending machine magic. Packed with custom stickers designed just for you, our retro machine will let your guests grab a piece of the party adding both quirky and cool to your event.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents definitely taught me everything I know about work and what it takes to build a reputable brand. They owned and ran Mannino’s Bakery for over 30 years before retiring in their 50s – a local bakery that grew to be known statewide and loved for its loyal customers and community feel. Watching them build something from the ground up showed me the importance of consistency, pride in what you do, and treating people well. When I started building Byrdie Bar and STiCK, their work ethic and values were the blueprint for how I wanted to grow my own businesses.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to trust the process and be patient. Things don’t always happen on the timeline you have in mind, but every experience, even the messiest and meanest ones, teach you something valuable. And most importantly, I’d remind myself to be kinder to myself along the way. It somehow does always seem to workout in the end.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Loyalty and love – as simple as that.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
One thing I understand deeply that most people don’t is that not all money is good money. On the surface, a booking or opportunity might look appealing, but if it doesn’t align with your values, your brand, or your energy, it can end up costing more than it’s worth. Sometimes the client, the timing, or the expectations just aren’t a good fit…and that’s okay. Learning to say no, even when it feels risky, has been one of the most important lessons in building a sustainable business. It’s not just about making money; it’s about protecting your time, your team, and the reputation you’re working so hard to cultivate.

Contact Info:

• Website: byrdiebar.com AND stickvendingmachine.com
• Instagram: @byrdiebar AND @stickvendingmachine